Authorities have launched an investigation after armed police opened fire on a man, leaving him with life-changing injuries, following the stabbing of a woman in Luton.
Bedfordshire Police responded to a flat on Cardigan Street after receiving reports that a woman was being threatened with a knife. Witnesses told the Daily Mail that a man was seen holding a blade to the woman's throat during a volatile argument shortly before 1 p.m. on Tuesday.
Upon arrival at the scene, officers encountered the situation. One officer discharged four shots, while another deployed a baton round. The man was struck by the projectiles, sustaining injuries to his arm and leg, according to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). He was subsequently transported to the hospital. The woman, who also sustained stab wounds, was taken to the hospital as well, though her condition is not considered life-threatening.
The IOPC confirmed on Wednesday that it had initiated an independent investigation into the incident. "The use of firearms by police officers is rare, but where potentially lethal force has been used, it is important that we carry out an independent investigation into the circumstances," said IOPC director of engagement Emily Barry. She added that all officers involved are currently being treated as witnesses, with no indication of misconduct at this stage.
Neighbors described hearing loud gunshots and seeing the injured man being taken away on a stretcher. One resident, Frances King-Barton, 65, who lives opposite the flat, described the scene as chaotic. Another neighbor recounted hearing screams that sounded "almost like a child" and stated that they decided to call the police after hearing panicked shouts of "let me in, let me in."
The father of two, who lives a few doors away, described the area as "dodgy" but noted that the specific street had been relatively quiet. He expressed concern for his children's safety, stating that the road was closed for an extended period due to the police and ambulance presence.
The investigation by the IOPC is in its initial phase, focusing on the actions and decisions of the officers, including the discharge of firearms and whether the use of force was reasonable, necessary, and proportionate.